First and foremost, I believe that coaching is a calling and without that calling one cannot achieve success to the highest degree.I would not be in this profession if it were not for my intense passion and deep desire to develop student athletes spiritually, physically, and academically.It is my responsibility to teach and motivate student athletes so that they may reach their greatest potential as an athlete, as well as being a contributing member of society.In doing so, my job does not start at the beginning of the work day, nor end at the completion of the work day, but instead, is a part of me everywhere I go and in everything I do.My success as a coach is dependent on three integral aspects; love, honesty, and the ability to influence in a positive manner.

“Kids don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”I believe every kid wants to be loved and in turn wants to love.It is up to me to find out what makes each kid “tick”.In order for that to happen, I must develop a personal relationship with each of my players.Each child comes from a different background and faces different struggles that are specific to his life.I must be compassionate and patient in my dealings with each player while also attempting to meet their individual emotional and spiritual needs.I also believe you must have an equal love for the game of basketball.I strive to increase my knowledge of the game and in turn, allow the kids to experience a greater level of success.Love for the child, as well as love for the game, are pertinent to my success as a coach.

Secondly, honesty must be taught and exhibited on a consistent basis.I think that honesty builds trust and trust encourages effort.In order for a team to be successful, there must be a degree of trust at all levels; coach to player, player to coach, and player to player.The coach must be truthful in addressing ability, potential, and role of each kid while the player must be truthful in regards to discipline issues, academics, and off-the-court behavior.Players must be truthful to one another in all aspects of their daily interactions.Honesty is not situational and is not predicated on any outside influence (parents, coaches, administration).It must be displayed not only by words, but even more importantly, by actions.

Lastly, I believe that I must be a positive role model for each kid.Kids are easily influenced whether that be positively or negatively.I must guide and encourage my student athletes to excel in all areas of life, not just athletics.I think a high level of integrity is extremely important in dealing with kids and I understand that my actions will ultimately speak louder than my words.I hope that my interactions with the kids will allow them to make better decisions and eventually result in growth and maturity.It is my daily goal to influence kids in a manner that will reflect high character and high integrity, both of which are critical in becoming a successful adult.